Health & Safety

Unlawful Use of Drugs and Alcohol

Introduction
The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law No. 101-226) require colleges and universities to adopt a program to prevent the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees. The College's failure to comply with the provisions in the Act would result in the immediate loss of our eligibility to receive all federal fundings and could require repayment, in full or in part, of any federal financial assistance previously awarded.

All Colleges and universities must give notice to each student and employee that unlawful use of drugs and alcohol is prohibited, describe applicable legal sanctions and health risks, list counseling programs available, and advise students and employees that violation of this policy could lead to penalties up to and including expulsion from the College, termination of employment, and/or referral to civil authorities for prosecution.

The College is committed to maintaining a campus and workplace environment where members may live, learn, and work free of the deteriorating effects of drug and alcohol abuse. To this end the College carries out drug and alcohol abuse education and prevention programs.

Policy Requirements
The unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by faculty, staff, or students on College property or as part of any of its activities is absolutely prohibited.

Legal Sanctions
More detailed descriptions of applicable local, state or federal laws for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol are on reserve in the College Library. Some legal sanctions that could be imposed include:

Consumption of alcohol by a minor: up to a $700 fine/up to 90 days in jail

Illegal sale of alcohol: up to a $3,000 fine/up to 1 year in jail

Possession of a small amount of marijuana: up to a $700 fine/up to 90 days in jail

Sale or possession of controlled substances, such as cocaine, hallucinogens, marijuana, etc.: up to a $1,000,000 fine/up to 30 years in jail

College Consequences
Any faculty, staff, or student found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary actions by the College up to and including expulsion from the College, termination of employment, and/or referral to civil authorities for criminal prosecution. The College may also require participation in an appropriate drug or alcohol assistance or rehabilitation program.

Risks to Life and Health
Abuse of drugs and alcohol leads to impaired behavior and judgment, a jeopardizing of relationships, and the likelihood of deteriorated work performance. Associated health risks include increased risk of accidental injury or death, depression, suicide, brain damage, heart and respiratory failure, liver damage, and sexually transmitted disease due to impaired sexual decisions.

Counseling, Treatment and RehabilitationDrug or alcohol counseling, treatment and rehabilitation/re-entry programs for faculty, staff, and students are available from a variety of sources. Anyone who recognizes a personal drug or alcohol problem, is concerned about another student or co-worker, or who may wish to know more about drug and alcohol abuse may contact:

Biennial Review
Human Resources, the dean of students, and the dean of the college will conduct a biennial review of the College's Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program to determine its effectiveness, implement needed changes, and insure consistent enforcement of disciplinary sanctions.